You Can Buy a Home with a just 3.5% Downpayment

Even if Your Credit Isn't Perfect

When FDR spoke those words, he was trying to reassure a nation in the throes of an economic disaster.

Today, those words might be, “There is nothing to fear when you fear your credit rating.

You can get a mortgage with little or no down payment and a low credit rating when you turn to the FHA (the Federal Housing Administration) who will insure your loan. The FHA allows you to use a minimum down payment of 3.5%, even if you have an imperfect credit history.

This FHA program started about the time Roosevelt spoke his famous words and was in response to the high number of foreclosures and defaults. They supply mortgage lenders with adequate insurance and help stimulate the housing market through accessible and affordable loans. FHA loans are very popular with first-time homebuyers and those with low credit scores.

Easy Qualification – Workable Solutions

It is easy to qualify for an FHA loan. All you need is a down payment of 3.5%. So, if you cannot afford the usual 20%, or if the private mortgage insurers walk away when you show up at their doors, you might find the FHA option as your next, best move.

Here’s another thing to consider with the FHA option: the loan is “assumable.” That means when you want to sell your home, the new buyer can take over the terms you negotiated and continue with your loan if they choose. Other people with low or bad credit, or have a bankruptcy or foreclosure in their history, may still qualify for an FHA loan.

FHA Loan Requirements

The FHA has a few specific requirements you have to meet, but considering the advantages of a 3.5% down payment, they are not overly burdensome:

A 2-year history of steady employment, a valid Social Security Number, be a legal resident and of legal age.

A minimum down payment of 3.5%. That money can even come from friends and family members.

FHA loans are only for your primary residence.

Minimum credit score of 580 for a down payment of 3.5%. Credit score between 500-579 for a down payment of 10%.

You should be at least two years out of bankruptcy and have re-established good credit.

You should be at least three year out of foreclosure and have re-established good credit.

(Exceptions – on an individual basis – are available to the last two points.)

Compare and Save

LendingTree.com offers a significant advantage when you shop for your next mortgage, even an FHA loan. They compare lenders so you save money. A recent report shows that when consumers compare five different lenders, the average homebuyer saves $24,000. Even comparing just 3 lenders can save you as much as $16,000. Their service is simple, fast, and most of all– free. You shop around to find your dream home, now it’s time to shop around to get your dream mortgage, and LendingTree can help.